Scotland boss Gordon Strachan says the top flight must be "manipulated" in order to bring back Rangers, Hearts and Hibernian from the Championship. Only two promotion spots are available. (Various)

Celtic defender Virgil van Dijk reckons facing Rangers in the semi-final of the League Cup will be "more special than Champions League nights". (Various)

Rangers manager Ally McCoist appeals for calm ahead of the much-anticipated first meeting of the Glasgow rivals for close to three years. (Various)

Striker Kris Boyd reckons Rangers may have an advantage because they have more players with experience of the derby fixture. (Various)

OTHER GOSSIP

Scotland's rugby league coach Steve McCormack will receive the European Championship trophy on Thursday. The Scots lost to France on Friday but Ireland failed to register the 41-point margin needed against Wales yesterday. (Various)

Scotland winger Sean Maitland says head coach Vern Cotter has asked the players to stamp a new identity on the national team. (Various)

Former Scotland international Peter Wright reckons Scott Lawson is "slight favourite" for the hooker's position in the autumn Tests. (Scotsman)

Argentina full-back Santiago Cordero insists the Pumas are chasing a hat-trick of tour wins against Scotland, Italy and France. (Herald)